TOO many young people are still feeling the effects of the worst recession in recent history.
Those with fewest qualifications are being pushed further back in the queue for work, leaving thousands stranded in the dole queue.
A report by The Prince’s Trust and The Royal Bank of Scotland has revealed how much this youth disadvantage is costing the UK.
In the North-East alone, youth unemployment could cost up to £8m a week through benefits and lost productivity.
Even a conservative estimate – based on lost productivity being equivalent to Jobseeker’s Allowance – suggests that youth unemployment costs per week for the North-East would be more than £2.5m.
Based on lost productivity being equivalent to the average weekly wage for their age group, the astronomical cost of youth unemployment in the North-East is £8m a week.
The Prince’s Trust can give young people the skills and confidence to leave the dole queue permanently for a fraction of this cost Government, charities and employers must work together to deliver this vital change.
To find out more go to princestrust.org.uk or call 0800 842 842.
David Beavis, regional director, Prince’s Trust.
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